Transit Systems has partnered with TAFE NSW to offer its first ever pilot Electric Vehicle (EV) connect and disconnect training course, designed to equip maintenance staff with the essential skills needed to safely service and repair electric buses.
The pilot course, taught by TAFE NSW, focuses on the unit of competency AURETH101 – Depower and reinitialise battery electric vehicles. This nationally recognised unit covers the critical procedures required to safely depower high-voltage systems found in battery electric vehicles (BEVs) before any service or repair work can be conducted.
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TAFE NSW automotive electrical teacher Phillip Cuomo says the program is crucial for upskilling the current workforce in the rapidly advancing technology of electric vehicles.
“Ensuring that all maintenance staff at Transit Systems are trained and competent to work on electric buses is vital for their safety,” Cuomo says.
“The pilot program is important because it will help us to reflect and improve training in this new space of advancing technologies as well as allowing us to come together to learn, shareindividual experiences and knowledge to achieve effective outcomes.”
Transit Systems’ tradespersons and workshop supervisors are the first students of the program, where they will receive a will receive a Statement of Attainment in Depower and Reinitialise Battery Electric Vehicles, a qualification that ensures they are fully equipped to handle the high-voltage systems in BEVs.
“Our commitment to safety and innovation is at the core of everything we do,” Transit Systems fleet and facilities manager Robert Rachwal says.
“With a current EV fleet of 149 at Transit Systems, this training is about ensuring that our employees are protected as they adapt to new and advancing technologies.
“We’re proud to partner with TAFE NSW to deliver this essential training and look forward to expanding the program to more of our team.”
The course covers a range of topics including electricity fundamentals, high-voltage safety, Australian standards for EV operations, and manufacturer-specific procedures for depowering and reinitialising high-voltage systems in buses such as those from BYD, Yutong, and Custom Denning.
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